What is kava?
We may earn a commission from links on this page.
Kava is a drink made from the root of Piper methysticum, a plant in the pepper family that grows across the South Pacific: Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa and Hawaii. For centuries it has been prepared for ceremonies, welcomes and evening gatherings, and today it's served in kava bars across the U.S. and sold in ready-to-drink cans.
What does kava feel like?
The active compounds are called kavalactones. People usually describe the effect as calm and loose-shouldered while staying clear-headed, which is why it has become popular with people cutting back on alcohol. A tingly or numb feeling on the lips and tongue is normal and fades after a few minutes.
What does it taste like?
Traditional kava tastes earthy, peppery and a little bitter, which is why it's often served with a fruit chaser. Canned kava drinks are flavored to cover most of that. Citrus-and-cream flavors like Orange Dream are the easiest place to start.
How to drink it
- Start with one can and wait about 30 minutes before deciding whether you want more.
- Drink it on its own. Don't mix kava with alcohol.
- Don't drive or operate machinery after drinking it.
- If you already drink kava regularly, stronger options like the double-strength Brewer Series cans exist.
Who should skip it
Kava has rare reports of liver problems, mostly linked to concentrated supplements. Skip it if you have a liver condition, are pregnant or nursing, or take medications that affect the liver or nervous system, and talk to your doctor first if you're unsure.
Related: Why does kava taste so bad? · How long does kava take to kick in? · Can you mix kava and alcohol? · What is a kava bar?